Zambia’s Haimbe Calls for Unity, Democracy, and Zambia’s Seat at the UN human rights council
Below, what Zambia’s MFA Mulambo Haimbe told UNGA
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Zambia’s Haimbe Calls for Unity, Democracy, and Zambia’s Seat at the UN human rights council
UNITED NATIONS, 28 September 2026 — Zambia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Hamakuni Haimbe delivered an address to the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly, urging unity in multilateralism, defending Africa’s democratic credentials, and demanding permanent seats for Africa on the UN Security Council.
Haimbe spoke on behalf of President Hakainde Hichilema, who has delegated UNGA attendance for the third consecutive year as part of his policy to cut government expenses. “Zambia is at peace, Zambia is open for partnership, and Zambia is ready to grow,” Haimbe declared, his voice rising with enthusiasm as he outlined the country’s vision.
The minister emphasized that trust in multilateral institutions is eroding, warning that the UN risks irrelevance if it fails to deliver for all nations. “Trust in multilateralism must be restored — the United Nations must deliver for all, not only the powerful,” he said.
Turning to Zambia’s domestic record, Haimbe highlighted the country’s peaceful elections, insisting that democracy in Africa is alive and credible. “Zambia stands as proof that democracy is not chaos — our peaceful elections show that constitutionalism and unity can coexist,” he told delegates.
On Africa’s long standing demand for permanent UNSC representation, Haimbe was emphatic that Africa needs to have a seat on the council.
Africa, home to 1.4 billion people and vast mineral wealth, has been voiceless in the Security Council. Permanent seats for Africa have remained a pipe dream.
His remarks echoed sentiments expressed by other African leaders at UNGA81.
Botswana’s President Gideon Duma Boko has repeatedly called for Africa’s inclusion, while South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya have led the push for reform, arguing that the continent’s youthful population and economic sway make its exclusion indefensible.
Haimbe also addressed climate justice, debt restructuring, and investment in Africa’s youth, but returned often to the theme of unity and fairness in global governance.
🔑 Main Points Stressed by Haimbe
• Unity in Multilateralism: “Trust in multilateralism must be restored — the UN must deliver for all, not only the powerful.”
• Democracy & Elections: “Zambia stands as proof that democracy is not chaos — our peaceful elections show that constitutionalism and unity can coexist.”
• Zambia’s Stance: “Zambia is at peace, Zambia is open for partnership, and Zambia is ready to grow.”
• Zambia is officially seeking election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the term 2027–2029
Zambia’s full address to the UNGA presented on 26th Sept. 2026 with 11 pages is available on the UN portal and MFA page for debate. Your thoughts?